All eyes will be on the Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies team on Saturday as the reigning champions square off against JVW FC at the UJ Soweto Stadium as the 10th round of the Hollywoodbets Super League takes centre stage.
The Brazilians were in splendid form last time out as a brace from Boitumelo Rabale, coupled with a fine strike from Lelona Daweti, propelled Banyana Ba Style to their seventh win of the campaign.
Although the result sent Sundowns Ladies to the top of the standings with one point over UWC who have played one game less, Lehlogonolo ‘Hlogi’ Mashigo believes everyone within the camp is motivated to hold on to their position.
“As defending champions, we know that every team we face is motivated to beat us and we are fully aware of this fact. Although we are no longer surprised by the way they approach us, we cannot afford to lose any more points, especially after our recent defeat to Royal AM. Our goal is to claim maximum points against JVW FC and maintain our position at the top of the standings. We are determined to work hard and do whatever it takes to achieve this objective,” Hlogi stated.
In recent times, the Brazilians have had the upper hand in this fixture. Last season, they registered a convincing 4-2 home victory and a 2-0 success in the reverse meeting. The season before, Sundowns Ladies also prevailed with a 2-1 home victory and mustered a 2-2 draw on away soil.
Despite their recent dominance over their opponents, Captain Zanele Nhlapho believes that the team is focused and prepared for the unexpected.
“Preparations have been in top gear, not just because we are facing JVW FC, but because that is what we do every week. We know that we have already dropped some points, which is never a good thing for us from a points perspective. The technical team has been very helpful in keeping us focused and sharp, as we are up against a very solid side. We anticipate a tough game against them, but we are mentally and physically prepared to take on the challenge,” stated Captain Zanele.
Nhlapho, who scored a goal in the home fixture against JVW FC last season, is hoping to replicate her success in the upcoming game, “Scoring a goal is always a great feeling, whether it is a penalty or a header. I am happy to contribute to the team’s success in any way possible. As a collective unit, we are focused on helping each other and we are always willing to step up when needed. It does not matter who scores the goals, as long as we work together and achieve our objectives.”
JVW FC is currently placed 6th on the Hollywoodbets Super League standings with 17 points, having played eight games so far this season. The Blue Diamonds have won five times, with their last three wins coming courtesy of hard-fought 1-0 victories.
The match between Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies and JVW FC is scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 22nd, at the UJ Soweto Stadium. The kick-off is scheduled for 15h00.
